Fantasy Junction

Description

1965 Jaguar D-Type Recreation by Tempero
s/n 1D50661BW, engine no. 7A31569-8
British Racing Green with Black Leather Interior

The D-Type is one of Jaguar’s most famous and successful creations. A development of the Le Mans-winning C-type, the D-Type was also designed by aerodynamicist Malcom Sayer, and would go on to win many races, including Le Mans in 1955, 56, and 57. It continued to use the sophisticated twin cam XK inline-6, and disc brakes, but the major news was the inclusion of a unit type monocoque chassis, which allowed a smaller frontal area. The conversion of the engine to dry-sump lubrication lowered its center of gravity and allowed it to fit into this lower body. Today, the majority of D-Types have been long since been acquired by sophisticated collectors and are thus out of reach for most people, even collectors. Consequently, high quality reconfigurations carrying Jaguar chassis and running gear, and alloy bodies of the original style and construction type, have garnered the interest of enthusiasts seeking the experience of owning and driving one of the world’s most important automobiles without the out-of-reach price tag or uneasiness associated with enjoying such a valuable car.

This particular car was constructed by Tempero and features an all aluminum body replicating an early “short nose” D-Type. It is based on and is registered as a 1965 Jaguar. The engine is a 4.2 liter XK powerplant, fitted with triple Weber 45mm carburetors. Under the skin, the car has Jaguar independent rear suspension, which appears to have been sourced from an E-Type. The car makes a strong cosmetic impression, with an authentic appearance and high quality workmanship throughout. The body is straight and displays excellent fit, and the paintwork was performed to high standards, with minor wear in the form of light scratches, a few surface cracks, and some chips where the hood meets the center section of the tub. The Dunlop alloy wheels look authentic and are in fine shape. One of the leather hood straps has been replaced and looks newer than the other. The lights and glazing are in very good shape, other than an area of clouding to the Perspex windscreen. A hard removable cover is over the passenger area so that the car can fit two occupants.

The interior is evocative and has a more authentic appearance than most D-Type replicas thanks to its correct appearing three-spoke steering wheel and Smiths gauges which were not simply pulled from an E-Type. The steering wheel has a few cracks in the wood rim. The leather is excellent throughout. The interior is otherwise spare and tidy, in keeping with the competition purpose of the original D-Type. A telescoping steering column is fitted, although there is some free play in the shaft which should be corrected with an additional bracket.

The engine compartment shows a high level of workmanship and the engine is extremely impressive thanks to its triple Webers and large alloy tank tanks. The engine compartment is attractive and generally clean, though not detailed to show standards. Instead, its presentation is consistent with that of a very nice driver, like the rest of the car. The charging system is via alternator.

The car is very special to drive. The motor is extremely strong and thanks to the large carburetors especially, the car absolutely flies at wide open throttle. The noise is fantastic, likely the closest thing there is in the automotive world to the sound of the Rolls-Royce Merlin used in the Spitfire and the P-51 Mustang. At less aggressive throttle applications, the car remains tractable and relatively smooth, although it pops and crackles impatiently through the exhaust and carburetors when trundling around town, particularly when cold. The clutch is heavy but easy to modulate, and the car shifts smoothly and without protest into all gears when shifting both up and down. The steering is tight and communicative, making the car easy to place, while the suspension is surprisingly comfortable while providing excellent body control. The brakes work evenly and effectively, if not completely silently. The overall driving experience is very visceral. The car is loud, fast, and purposeful, making the driver feel like a hero even when moving from traffic light to traffic light in town.

This is an excellent opportunity to acquire a beautifully wrought car that faithfully captures the appearance and excitement of experiencing one of the greatest cars of all time. An absolute pleasure to drive and look at, this car was built to the highest standards and represents superb value as well as a very exciting and visceral alternative to an E-Type for similar money.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608